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Definition and measure

Language is intrinsic to expressing and sustaining culture as a means of communicating values, beliefs, and customs. As the indigenous culture of New Zealand, Māori culture is unique to New Zealand and forms a fundamental part of the national identity. Māori language is central to Māori culture and an important aspect of cultural participation and identity.

This indicator shows the proportion of people who identify themselves as being of Māori ethnicity who are able to have an everyday conversation in te reo Māori. The data does not measure fluency because this is subject to variations in people’s assessment of their own ability.